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Soldiers

University of North Florida Launches Army ROTC Program

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

University of North Florida has started offering an Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program, allowing students to earn college credit and potentially join the Army at a higher rank. The program, nicknamed The Fighting Osprey Company, has seven students in its first class, with instructor Sgt. 1st Class Paul Graham expecting about 50 next fall. Graham, with 14 years of Army experience, focuses on providing individualized attention and mentorship, setting the program apart from traditional basic training.

Key Takeaways:

  • The University of North Florida's ROTC program has seven students in its first class, with instructor Sgt. 1st Class Paul Graham expecting about 50 next fall.
  • ROTC students can earn college credit and potentially join the Army at a higher rank than most enlistees.
  • The program's instructor, Sgt. 1st Class Paul Graham, provides individualized attention and mentorship, unlike traditional basic training.
  • ROTC students can choose to enroll in the program without committing to join the Army, but higher-level courses require a signed commitment.
  • The program offers full scholarships to students who commit to the program, with enlistment after completion.
  • The Army and the state of Florida cover the costs of ROTC instructors, with the University of Florida and Florida State University already having similar programs.

Statistics:

  • The program's first class has seven students.
  • Sgt. 1st Class Paul Graham expects about 50 students to enroll in the program next fall.
  • ROTC graduates can enlist as a second lieutenant and earn about $31,800 a year, compared to a starting Army private's $16,800 a year.
  • The program's instructor, Sgt. 1st Class Paul Graham, has 14 years of Army experience.
  • The University of North Florida's ROTC program offers full scholarships to students who commit to the program.

Sources:

  • Paul Graham, Sgt. 1st Class, UNF ROTC instructor
  • University of North Florida
  • University of Florida
  • Florida State University
  • Army Web site

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